GUIDELINES FOR ECOLOGICAL

REPORT WRITING
Second Edition

December 2017
Contents
1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................................................ 1
2. DIFFERENT TYPES OF REPORT FOR DIFFERENT PURPOSES.......................................................................................... 1
3. GENERAL ADVICE ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
4. MAKING A START.......................................................................................................................................................... 7
5. GENERIC CHECKLIST FOR REPORT STRUCTURE ........................................................................................................... 7
Title Page........................................................................................................................................................... 7
Summary............................................................................................................................................................ 7
Acknowledgements............................................................................................................................................ 8
List of Contents, Figures, Tables and Appendices............................................................................................... 8
Introduction and Terms of Reference................................................................................................................. 8
Methodology/Methods...................................................................................................................................... 8
Results................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Discussion and Analysis of Results..................................................................................................................... 9
Other Sections.................................................................................................................................................... 10
Recommendations............................................................................................................................................. 10
Conclusions........................................................................................................................................................ 10
References..........................................................................................................................................................10
Appendices......................................................................................................................................................... 10
6. COMMON PITFALLS...................................................................................................................................................... 11
7. OTHER USEFUL GUIDANCE........................................................................................................................................... 11
APPENDICES..................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Appendix A - Template for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Reports................................................................ 12
Appendix B - Template for Ecological Impact Assessment Reports................................................................... 16

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Professional Standards Committee would like to acknowledge the members of the working group who undertook the
review of the Institute’s previous publication on ecological report writing (Professional Guidance Series No. 9) and who
were instrumental in bringing forward these new guidelines as a replacement to that original document. They include:
Phil Baarda, Jessica Batchelor, Mick Hall, Pauline Holmes, Mike Dean, Richard Graves, Lisa Kerslake, Mike Oxford, Charlotte
Phillips and Sue Swales.

This document should be referenced as:

CIEEM (2017) Guidelines on Ecological Report Writing. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management,
Winchester.
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. The ability to provide objective, relevant, accurate, fair and impartial information and advice is enshrined
in the Institute’s Code of Professional Conduct (the Code) and is an essential requirement if members are to
demonstrate their competence and professionalism. Good report writing is therefore an essential skill for
professional ecologists and environmental managers.
1.2. A well-written report is succinct, serves the purpose for which it is intended, is tailored to the requirements of
the reader and answers the brief agreed with the client. It should inspire the reader’s confidence in the content,
it should avoid any misunderstanding, and minimise the risk of unintended financial or legal consequences. The
intention with these guidelines is to provide a framework for the preparation of a good report.
1.3. This guidance is based on established good practice and aims to ensure:
a. Ease of access to readily available information;
b. Content and structure serve the intended purpose (i.e. contains all necessary information in a logical
format);
c. Transparency and clarity throughout and justification for robust recommendations and conclusions.

2. DIFFERENT TYPES OF REPORT FOR DIFFERENT PURPOSES

2.1. From the outset, it is important to identify the purpose of the report and to then decide on the most appropriate
format that will best serve that purpose.
2.2. The type of report required will vary depending on the client and their specific needs, and on a project by
project basis. For example, the report may cover a single survey for one particular species or be a full ecological
assessment involving multiple, detailed species and habitat surveys, accompanied by an assessment of likely
impacts, with details of necessary mitigation measures.
2.3. Table 1 provides a list of common types of report along with a description of the purpose each is intended to
serve. To accompany the table, two templates are provided in Appendix A and B of these guidelines that set out
the structure and format that is considered to be good practice when preparing Ecological Impact Assessment
(EcIA) Reports and Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Reports (PEARs) (for the latter see CIEEM’s Technical
Guidance Series (TGS) Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal on the Institute’s website).
2.4. Some clients, such as national and local highway agencies/authorities and Network Rail may already have a
preferred structure and format for reports to be submitted to them (e.g. as set out respectively in the Design
Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) and the Guide to Rail Investment Process (GRIP)). Otherwise, under
normal circumstances where a report is intended to inform some stage of the planning and development
process, ecological reports should be based on the templates provided in Appendix A and B of these guidelines.
2.5. These guidelines provide general advice applicable to the majority of reports. However, for detailed guidance
on undertaking and reporting on Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), see CIEEM’s Guidelines for Ecological
Impact Assessment on the Institute’s website.

The Importance of Proportionality

2.6. It is important to remember that the structure and content of a report should be proportionate to the predicted
degree of risk to biodiversity and to the nature and scale of the proposed development. Consequently, report
authors should only provide information that is relevant, necessary and material to the purpose identified,
while at the same time ensuring that adequate details are provided for the intended reader and/or audience
e.g. in the case of an EcIA Report, a local planning authority (LPA). Likewise, all decision-makers should apply a
proportionate approach to the information that they request.

1
 Table 1. Examples of different types of ecological report and their purpose

Report Type Description/Purpose

Survey and Research Reports
Ecological Survey (e.g. Habitat Survey)
Research Report
Ecological Monitoring Report
(As distinct from a monitoring strategy – see below)
Assessment Reports
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report (PEAR)
Provides the results of an ecological survey, such as a
habitat or a badger survey. The report will include a
description of the methods used as well as the detailed
results of the survey, and interpretation/assessment of
the results. These reports are normally used to inform
one of the reports listed under ‘Assessment’. They may
be submitted as part of a planning application e.g. as an
appendix to an EcIA report or the ecological chapter of an
Environmental Statement (see below). Ecological Survey
reports should follow the structure set out in Section 5
below.
Provides the results of a piece of research, such as may
be commissioned by a Statutory Nature Conservation
Organisation (SNCO). A specific structure may be provided
in such cases by the client. Alternatively, preparation of
such reports may follow the guidance in Section 5 below.
Provides the results of post-construction monitoring for a
development project as a ‘snap shot’ at a particular period
in time, as required by a planning condition/obligation or
by a protected species licence. The report will include a
description of the methods used as well as the detailed
results of the survey, and interpretation/ assessment
of the results. Preparation of the monitoring report
should, where appropriate, follow the guidance on report
structure set out in Section 5 below. The appropriate
content of such a report is set out in BS42020 clause
11.2.3.4.
A monitoring ‘report’ is distinct from an ecological
monitoring ‘strategy’. The former provides only the
methods and results of monitoring, along with their
interpretation (often collected at prescribed periods
after the completion of works). Whereas, the full
strategy provides an agreed set of aims and objectives
for monitoring and comprehensive details about how
monitoring will be undertaken and reviewed (see
‘Ecological Monitoring Strategy’ below under ‘Other
Common Types of Ecological Report’).
Provides the results of initial ecological surveys associated
with a proposed development. The report is used to
identify further ecological surveys necessary to inform an
EcIA (see below), to identify ecological constraints to a
project and make recommendations for design changes,
and to highlight opportunities for ecological enhancement.
It can be used as a scoping report (for non-EIA projects),
but should not be submitted as part of a planning
application unless it can be determined that the project
would have no significant ecological effects, no mitigation
is required and no further surveys are necessary; with the
exception of such cases it should be superseded by an EcIA
report (see below). The PEAR should follow the structure
set out in Appendix A of these guidelines.

2
 Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) Report - non-EIA
Ecology or Biodiversity Chapter(s) of an Environmental
Statement (EcIA for EIA projects)
Ecological Report
(Using a Pro-forma or bespoke template provided by the
relevant decision-maker)
Statement to Inform the Habitat Regulations Assessment
process
Other Common Types of Ecological Report
Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP)
3
Assesses the impacts of a non-EIA development proposal
on ecological features, clearly identifying any ‘significant
effects’ as well as impacts on any designated sites or
protected species, and detailing both the mitigation
measures required, and how these will be secured. An EcIA
Report will be submitted as part of a planning application
where it has been determined that a formal EIA is
not required. It should follow the structure set out in
Appendix B of these guidelines. For development projects
affecting only a single species/group (such as where a barn
conversion requires an assessment in relation to bats) the
report accompanying the application will comprise an EcIA
Report. As such, it should therefore have the same content
as that set-out in Appendix B, although the structure can
be modified to delete unnecessary sections, or to combine
sections where appropriate i.e. it should be proportionate.
Where a formal EIA is required the Ecological Impact
Assessment will be presented as a chapter of an
Environmental Statement (ES). This has the same purpose
and content as an EcIA Report (see Appendix B of these
guidelines) although the structure is often dictated by an
EIA co-ordinator, to ensure consistency across the ES.
For ‘low risk’ small-scale developments, some LPAs
may operate a system where ecological information is
accepted in the form of a short pro-forma report on a
template provided by the council. Such reports have a
bespoke structure and format and should only be used in
conjunction with a system already in place and operated
by the LPA (e.g. Dorset County Council under their
Biodiversity Protocol). Use of such a pro-forma does not
reduce the need to work in accordance with good practice
and in compliance with the Institute’s Code of Professional
Conduct.
Provides the information needed to enable a Habitat
Regulations Assessment to be undertaken by a competent
authority of the implications of a project in relation to a
European Site in view of the site’s conservation objectives.
Such reports will have a specific structure and content
dependent on their purpose within the HRA process.
Provides details and specifications for the management
of habitats and other features of biodiversity interest.
Normally such reports are prepared in support of a
planning application where the LPA requires management
as a formal requirement e.g. for biodiversity mitigation,
compensation or enhancement purposes. The LEMP may
form a part of the information originally submitted with
the application (e.g. as part of the EcIA) or its provision
and delivery may be secured through planning conditions
or obligations. Preparation of the LEMP should, where
appropriate, follow the general guidance set out in Section
5 below. The appropriate content of such a report is set
out in BS42020 clause 11.1.
 Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP)
Ecological Monitoring Strategy
(Effectiveness or Early Warning Monitoring)
(As distinct from a monitoring report – see above)
BREEAM Report
Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)
European Protected Species Licence Application
4
Provides details and specifications for practical measures
intended to avoid or minimise adverse effects on
biodiversity during the construction process. Normally
such reports are prepared in support of a planning
application where the LPA requires management as
a formal requirement e.g. for biodiversity mitigation,
compensation or enhancement purposes. The CEMP may
form a part of the information originally submitted with
the application (e.g. as part of the EcIA) or its provision
and delivery may be secured through planning conditions
or obligations. Preparation of the CEMP should, where
appropriate, follow the general guidance set out in Section
5 below. The appropriate content of such a report is set
out in BS42020 clause 10.2.
Provides detailed and structured proposals for the
preparation of a monitoring strategy, in advance of the
commencement of development, which will be used to
establish whether proposed mitigation, compensation
and enhancement measures have been effective over a
specified period. The strategy may also be used to provide
early warning of when contingencies and/or remedial
measures will be ‘triggered’ in the event that ecological
objectives are not being achieved. Implementation of the
strategy over time will be informed by periodic ‘Ecological
Monitoring Reports’ (see above under ‘Survey and
Research Reports’).
The strategy may form a part of the information originally
submitted with the application (e.g. as part of the EcIA) or
its provision and implementation may be secured through
planning conditions or obligations. Preparation of the
strategy should, where appropriate, follow the general
guidance set out in Section 5 below. The appropriate
content of such a report is set out in BS42020 clause
11.2.3.4.
Provides supplementary and summary ecological
information in a standardised template format for
the Building Research Establishment Environmental
Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) Code assessor, in
accordance with BRE requirements, to gain credits towards
these schemes. This report is typically supported by other
ecological reports produced for the site. The report should
be prepared or reviewed by a ‘Suitably Qualified Ecologist,’
as defined by BRE.
Provides information enabling an organisation to identify
actions that it may take that are necessary to support
the conservation and management of particular habitats
and/or species. Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) may be
prepared by both public and private sector organisations,
and may be broad and strategic in nature or very specific
to one or two habitats or species. The structure and format
may need to be bespoke for the organisation in question,
but BAPs can be prepared following the relevant parts of
the guidance set out in Section 5 below.
Provides sufficient information in a bespoke structure and
format (i.e. a template) to enable the relevant SNCO to
determine applications for a derogation licence where the
applicant will then be able to undertake works or activities
that would otherwise be in breach of Article 12 of the
Habitat Directive (as implemented in the UK and Ireland
through domestic legislation e.g. through the Habitat and
Species Regulations 2010).
 Proof of Evidence / Witness Statement Provides written evidence to be presented at a Public
Inquiry (e.g. appeal inquiry) or Court Hearing (e.g. Judicial
Review). Such a report is used to present a case on behalf
of one of the parties involved. The size and structure of
the ‘report’ will depend on the specific nature of the
organisation and issues involved. However, while some of
content and format may need to be tailored to the case,
much of it may still be prepared following the relevant
parts of the general guidance set out in Section 5 below.
Such documents are also likely to be written in the first
person, as they represent a personal position or opinion.

3. GENERAL ADVICE
3.1. Keep the intended reader or audience in mind and consider:
• Why is the report needed? Establish the purpose of the report, what it will be used for and who is the target
audience. Where possible discuss this in detail with the ‘client’ (person or organisation by who has commissioned
the report) so that ‘what needs to be done’ and ‘how best to do it’ can be gauged accurately.
-- Where a brief has been agreed with a client, follow the brief unless changes have been subsequently
negotiated.
-- Following discussion with the client, be prepared to amend initial draft reports to provide additional
clarity or to match a house style etc. but take care to maintain the ecological integrity of the report and its
recommendations (see Section 1.1 above)
• As well as making clear the purpose of the report, it is also important to establish what it is not. For instance, for a
PEAR you might include:
‘This report aims to provide general advice on ecological constraints associated with any development
of the site and includes recommendations for further survey; it is not intended that this report should
be submitted with a planning application for development of the site, unless supported by the results of
further surveys and a detailed assessment of the effects of the proposed development.’
• Who is going to use it? (e.g. statutory agencies, developers, planners, consultees, members of the public etc.)
Note that if a report is going to be submitted with a planning application, it becomes a public document and may
be read by a wider audience than anticipated. Any written material submitted to a public body may be subject to
a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.
• What does the intended reader or audience hope to get out of the report?
• Avoid ‘may’ and ‘possibly’ and provide a definitive statement wherever possible. If this is not possible, state why
language used in the report is only tentative.
• What is the level of technical and legal expertise of the intended audience? Ensure appropriate language, style
and format is used relevant to the audience.
• What is the intended audience’s attitude to the topic of the report and what is their level of technical and legal
expertise? Tact may be needed if their attitudes are negative!
• What decisions are likely to be made as a result of the report? Ensure the implications of this are clearly
understood by the author(s) of the report.
• The report may need to include a Letter of Reliance, which developers and house builders often require. Such
letters require the author to vouch for the accuracy of data, though opinions are provided in ‘good faith’. Letters
and reports should state that they were ‘produced using all reasonable skill and care’ and should include a ‘signed
disclosure’ or ‘declaration of compliance with professional code of conduct’ (see also Clause 6.9 of BS42020).
• The need to:
-- Avoid repetition;
-- Cross-reference text to appendices;
-- Label and reference photographs and other figures and diagrams clearly;
-- Be consistent with terminology and check accuracy of references and use recognised references;
-- Ensure proportionality (see 2.6 above).

5
 3.2. Reports require an objective writing style that conveys information clearly and concisely. They are normally
impersonal and written in the third person. Structure and format of the report should be discussed in advance with
the client if the report is to be included in a document with contributions from several authors, or is being written
for a client with a preferred house-style. Ideally, one author should be selected to act as an overall editor to ensure
consistency.
3.3. If an ecological report is going to be incorporated into another large document (e.g. as a chapter in an Environmental
Statement), the author/editor of the ES should ensure that the final document retains the main findings and
conclusions of the original ecological report(s) without substantial alteration of either its content or meaning. Any
significant changes should be justified and made explicitly clear and unambiguous in the final document.
3.4. Where significant differences exist between original and final documents, it is advisable that the author of the
original ecological report is given the opportunity to confirm that the changes made do not substantially alter the
content and meaning of the original ecological report or omit any key facts or conclusions (see BS42020 clause 6.12).
This will ensure consistency with section 1.1. of these guidelines.
3.5. Pages should be clearly numbered and in most cases it is advisable to number all paragraphs. This allows easy cross-
referencing, for example in formal meetings or Public Inquiries or over the telephone.
3.6. Headers, footers and footnotes can all be used to assist the reader. They provide a quick means to confirm document
title or to identify the document date/version number or they can provide additional commentary or a reference
that would otherwise interrupt the flow if included in the main text (see footnote accompanying paragraph 3.9.
below).
3.7. Uncommon terms/symbols should be defined where they are first encountered in the text (or provide a glossary if
there are many).
3.8. All species should be given common and scientific names (in italics) to avoid confusion. Common names should
be used in the text (all in lower case unless the name includes a proper noun e.g. Daubenton’s bat and whiskered
bat), either with the scientific name (in italics) immediately following the first time it is mentioned, or with scientific
equivalents listed in a table in an appendix. A reference should be made to the source used for nomenclature
purposes, and this should be accurate throughout, e.g. the current edition of Stace for higher plants. If you are
dealing with groups with shifting taxonomy (e.g. lichens) then authorities are also needed.
3.9. The author should be competent to write, analyse/interpret results and to make recommendations on all aspects
covered by the report, or supported by a competent co-author if required. A justification of the competence of the
report’s author/co-authors should be provided for EcIA Reports or Ecology/Biodiversity chapters of Environmental
Statements (this is a requirement of the 2017 amendment of the EIA Regulations1 in relation to the latter).
3.10. Plagiarism must be avoided and the contributions of others must be fairly acknowledged. To not give adequate
recognition for the work of others may be a breach of copyright and result in legal action being taken against those
responsible.
Use of Maps and Data
3.11. Maps (e.g. from the Ordnance Survey), online images (e.g. from Google Earth etc.) and online data sources (e.g.
from the National Biodiversity Network) should only be used in accordance with relevant terms and conditions and/
or copyright and licence obligations.
Note: You must not include reports from the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) without first obtaining written
permission from the relevant Data Provider.
Quality Assurance
3.12. Once editing is complete, the draft report should be checked. Sentences can often be read in two completely
different ways, leading to misinterpretation, which can be very difficult for the author to pick up. Also, note that
spell-checkers will not pick up incorrect words if spelt correctly, e.g. pubic rather than public!
3.13. Ideally, a report should be checked by another competent ecologist. This may be easier in larger organisations, but
for small consultancies and sole-traders this can also be done using someone trusted on a reciprocal basis. A sound
Quality Assurance protocol should involve:
i. Self check by the author e.g. grammar, spelling and readability;
ii. Factual check to confirm information is correct, by an appropriate checker (e.g. by a colleague);
iii. Approval, to confirm the report meets the client’s brief and is of an appropriate standard (e.g. sign off by
project supervisor as QA control).
3.14. A draft for review should then be sent to the client, asking for comments by a specified date or giving a time period
after which a final version will be issued automatically. Reasonable requests for amendments by the client should be
made where these are warranted but should not change the integrity of the report (See 1.1. above).

1
The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017
The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017
The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Wales) Regulations 2017
The Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017
European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Agriculture) (Amendment) Regulations 2017
6
 3.15. Details setting out how Quality Assurance has been achieved should normally follow the title page of the report and
typically may include:
• date of completion of the report prominently displayed and date of survey work, particularly if significantly
different e.g. a year or two earlier;
• statement that the report has been prepared in accordance with these guidelines;
• declaration of compliance with relevant codes of professional practice;
• details of quality assurance (see 3.13. above).

4. MAKING A START
4.1. Remember you need to cover:
• Why the report is being written;
• Who has done the work or been involved;
• What was done, and;
• Where, how and when it was done.
Ensure you have defined the purpose of your report first so that you use an appropriate report structure and
format (see Table 1.).
4.2. An outline structure for the report should be prepared with reference to the checklist headings in Section 5 below.
Also, where appropriate, the author should:
• Read notes and analyse field data.
• Pull together related ideas/results.
• Assemble digital images to be used in the report; these can act as points of reference and they are valuable for
illustrating the text.
• Select images carefully and ensure the title/description matches. Photographs may be more open to
interpretation by third parties than text.
• Make use of additional sub-headings where appropriate.
• Ensure headings are in a logical order, to meet the brief and purpose of your report.
• Separate essential material for the main body of the report from material that should be put into appendices.
• Draw out main conclusions before starting to write.
• Avoid long blocks of ‘cut and paste’ generic text such as detailed descriptions of legislation for all species
investigated, whether or not found to be present. Text should be tailored to the topic of the report and
information should only be included if it is relevant and later referred to in the discussion, recommendations or
conclusions.

5. GENERIC CHECKLIST FOR REPORT STRUCTURE

Not all sections or headings suggested here will be required for all reports, and some report types require different
headings.
Title page
5.1. The title should indicate the subject matter exactly and as concisely as possible. It should be unambiguous and not
easily confused with other reports dealing with other ecological matters. Wherever possible, the purpose should
form part of the title e.g. Preliminary Ecological Appraisal for Freda Smith’s Site at Blogsville or ‘Ecological Impact
Assessment for Fred Blog’s Land’.
5.2. In addition, the title page should include:
• the clients name/details;
• date of the report (and version of document where relevant e.g. where more than one version of the document
has been produced);
• any classification e.g. consultation draft, confidential (with reasons justified in the text which follows);
• author’s(s’) name(s).
Summary
5.3. It is advisable to prepare the summary last. Some readers may only read your summary, so it is important that it is
self-contained, self-explanatory and captures the essence of your report. Normally it should be less than a page long
and may even be limited to one or two paragraphs. Short reports of three or four pages may not need a summary.

7
 5.4. The summary should contain:
• the purpose of the report including the client’s brief where appropriate;
• an introduction to the key issues;
• a brief description of the work undertaken for the report;
• a summary of the report’s recommendations, and;
• the report’s conclusions.
Acknowledgements
5.5. Any significant help should be acknowledged. If other people’s research, results or ideas are quoted or used in the
text, they should be referenced by bibliographic citation. See section 3.10 on copyright and intellectual property
rights.
5.6. Typically the author should acknowledge:
• names/organisations of specialist sub-contractors, expert volunteers etc. (indicating clearly the extent of their
contributions);
• names of persons with whom they have had useful discussions;
• those who have provided financial support;
• those who have loaned equipment/software; and/or
• those who have given in-kind help.
List of contents, including figures, tables and appendices
5.7. List section numbers and short but meaningful headings together with their associated page numbers. Use a
hierarchy of numbered sections and subsections, e.g. section 1, subsections 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 etc.
5.8. Provide a separate list of figures and their page numbers if necessary. Figures and tables should be numbered
sequentially; where there are multiple figures or tables used they should be numbered as they appear in each
chapter (e.g. Fig. 1.1, 1.2 etc. in Chapter 1).
Introduction and Terms of Reference
5.9. The purpose of the report must be clearly stated, including any brief given to you by your client.
5.10. 5et the scene and describe what was known at the start of the project. Try to ensure the client provides all relevant
information on the proposed works/project to enable appropriate recording, discussion and/or accurate impact
assessment at a later date. Giving a concise but accurate summary of the information provided by the ‘client’
enables the reader to understand the context of your work. Later changes to the context can then be picked up
by the reader. For example, the design of a development scheme may change after an ecological survey has been
completed. The need for further survey work to take account of the additional impacts is not always addressed by
the developer.
5.11. Set the context within which the report has been written. Is it:
• Stand alone;
• To be combined with other reports;
• To be submitted with a planning application;
• Does it supersede previous reports etc.?
5.12. Summarise the scope and limitations of the investigation (this should be in accordance with BS42020; Clause 6.7).
The limitations might include time of year, weather conditions, lack of time or other resources, access, etc. These
should be covered in more detail in the methodology section.
5.13. Provide any cross-references to other relevant documents, such as drawings showing development design or
landscape planting; other relevant temporal and spatial information; earlier ecological reports (e.g. PEARs); scientific
background (e.g. for the latest distribution of invasive species); and relevant legislation or planning policy, etc.
5.14. Provide details of any consultation undertaken in relation to the report or project and refer to the outcomes later in
the report.
Methodology/Methods
5.15. In this section you should describe:
• who carried out the work;
• where it took place;
• when it took place;
• what work was done;
• how it was done;
• were there any constraints and limitations; and
• if standard techniques/guidance were not followed, why not?
5.16. Describe what survey, experimental or impact assessment techniques were used (give references to standard
techniques, taxonomic books or keys where available (see CIEEM’s Sources of Survey Methods in the online
Technical Guidance Section of the Institute’s web site). Ensure methods used are up-to-date and follow good

8
 practice. If surveying for protected species or species of principal importance2, state which species were looked for
and the methods/signs used, even if the result was negative. If the methods used deviate from, or are only based on,
standard methods, state how they differ and why (see BS42020; Clauses 6.3.6 to 6.3.8).
5.17. Provide the following information:
• Description of each survey method used in sufficient detail to allow others to validate or repeat the survey;
• Definition of the study area for each survey;
• Provide the names and qualifications (and licence numbers, if relevant) of the surveyors;
• State the dates of any surveys undertaken;
• Description of equipment or software where used (e.g. type of bat detector) for this particular investigation;
• Description of the operating conditions (e.g. weather conditions, time of year, number of surveyors etc.) - for
more complex investigations consider putting these in an appendix;
• Description of constraints/limitations on the methodology (e.g. time, resources, lack of access, sub-optimal
season);
• A clear statement of any assumptions that have been made;
• A description of statistical techniques and confidence limits that have been used;
• Justification for extending the survey outside of a development’s boundaries (where necessary, client and
landowner agreement must be sought - see CIEEM’s PGS 5 Guidance for Access to Land);
• Explanation of how the locations used in a survey for sampling, quadrats or transect routes are made clear in the
report and how they may be identified on the ground, e.g. by use of accurate GIS coordinates;
• Details of information gathered through data search and desk study, including details of who was contacted,
which sources were reviewed, and the study area and date of search;
• Inclusion in the main report of only the interpretation of lists of historical records, with an explanation of how
these have influenced the field surveys - long detailed lists of records should be included as an appendix if
required, or state that a full list is available on request if not (see BS42020; Clause 6.11.1).
Results
5.18. The results should include:
• desk study results, including historical records and records which provide contextual information from the area
around the ‘site’;
• fieldwork;
• experimental work (note that results should only be stated in this section, not discussed);
• a clear distinction between what the facts are and what are only assumptions.
5.19. The results section is normally written in the past tense and in a passive and impersonal style (e.g. ‘bats were
recorded’ rather than ‘I recorded bats’ or ‘bats are present’). However, note that the baseline conditions section of
an EcIA Report, for example, is normally written in the present (or future) tense, as it describes what is there, or is
likely to be there, at the time that an impact occurs; baseline conditions therefore require interpretation of survey
results to allow this (see also 5.24. below).
5.20. Choose the clearest means of communication (e.g. words, tables, graphs, drawings or photographs) to make it easy
for the reader to understand. All relevant results, providing the evidence for the discussion and conclusions, should
be included. They should be complete enough for an independent ecologist to validate the conclusions drawn, but
manageable and presented in summary form if possible. Photographs can be particularly helpful to readers when
discussing habitats, sites, or other features, but they should not replace a clear description and interpretation in the
text.
5.21. Reports providing the results of a single species survey can usefully sub-divide this section into ‘desk study’ and ‘field
survey’ results. However, where the report is providing the results of numerous different types of ecological survey,
or an assessment of ecological effects associated with a development, the desk study results and field survey results
for a given species should be provided together, rather than in separate sections: this makes cross-referencing easier
and provides a more logical flow to the report.
5.22. Where appropriate, raw data should be included in the appendices, together with appropriate metadata3. As
a minimum, the latter should include details of what the data are, and why, where, when and how they were
collected, and by whom. Metadata are particularly important if data becomes separated from the original report e.g.
if sent to a Biological Record Centre or third party.
Discussion and Analysis of Results
5.23. Take care not simply to repeat the results. Draw out meaning and implications with reference to theory, legislation,
management, mitigation, etc (see 5.13. above). Arguments should be made here that link the original brief to
the conclusions, following a logical sequence, as objectively as possible. Any limitations or problems with the
methodology should also be discussed.

2
In England, Wales and Scotland “habitats and species of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity” are listed respectively under s.41
and s.42 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 and under s.2(4) of the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004; and in Northern
Ireland as a Priority Species List (undated). The country-based lists are all shown on the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) website (http://
jncc.defra.gov.uk/). See UK Priority Lists and click on the relevant country at: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5717
3
Refer to CIEEM’s Professional Guidance Series No. 10 Metadata Standards.
9
 5.24. Depending on the nature of the report, this section may have a different heading. For example, Ecological Impact
Assessments should provide the interpretation and analysis of the surveys in the baseline conditions section, rather
than a separate section. This then enables the author to bring together and interpret the results of field surveys,
desk study, habitat assessment, any relevant contextual information, and to consider predictable activities or events
that could change the baseline conditions in the future, to describe what will be there at the time that the impact
occurs.
Other sections
5.25. Particular report types may, by convention, contain different headings or additional sub-headings. EcIA Reports,
for example, will normally include sections such as ‘Basline Ecological Conditions’ and ‘Assessment of Effects and
Mitigation Measures’, rather than ‘Results’, ‘Discussion’ and ‘Recommendations’. For more information on types of
report and their purpose, see Table 1. and Appendices A and B (for PEARs and EcIA Reports respectively).
Recommendations
5.26. In this section, present recommended courses of action to be taken as a result of the work and analysis undertaken
so far and expand on any recommendations given in the summary. These should be as precise as possible, tailored
to the purpose of the report and the client’s situation, rather than a ‘generic’ response. You should give careful
consideration to the use of terms such as ‘will’ or ‘should’. ‘Will’ can be used when your recommendations have
been discussed and agreed with the client. ‘Should’ indicates that the report is aimed at informing the client of
your suggestions and gives no indication to a third party (e.g. the decision-maker) as to whether or not the client is
prepared to carry them out. This distinction is important if the report is to be submitted with a planning application
and especially where the recommendations may ultimately result in necessary measures being secured via planning
conditions. The decision-maker therefore requires as much certainty as possible (See BS42020 clause 6.6 ’Providing
certainty and clarity for the decision-maker and the applicant’).
5.27. The ‘Recommendations’ section should not include discussion.
5.28. A time limit should be given indicating how long the particular ecological data should be relied on for decision-
making purposes without the need to be updated, e.g. for EPS licences 18-24 months.
Conclusions
5.29. A short section describing how the report meets the brief described in the introduction. Very briefly summarise the
discussions/results in the main body of the report and the recommendations. Assess the implications of evidence
already presented. For short reports, it may be appropriate to combine the conclusions and recommendations
sections, where the recommendations deliver the reports objectives.
5.30. A reader should be able to pick up your report and grasp the most significant points by reading only the summary
and conclusions.
5.31. Where a report has been prepared to support a planning application (e.g. an EcIA Report), CIEEM would expect
the report to provide a clear statement in the conclusions as to what the likely outcomes are for biodiversity if the
proposed development is granted planning permission. Such implications may be presented as a table and/or as a
statement of ‘net losses and gains’ and should provide the decision-maker with a clear understanding of the likely
consequence for habitats and species likely to be affected significantly by the proposals.
References
5.32. Whatever format is used, references must provide the reader with enough information to easily track down the
source material for further investigation if required. All work by other people referred to in the text must be
referenced.
5.33. Information on citing references (e.g. the Harvard System of Referencing Guide) can be accessed online to ensure
literature referred to in the report is acknowledged appropriately. These may include electronic reference bases e.g.
Endnote.
Appendices
5.34. Appendices may be used to provide detailed, lengthy or supplementary information (e.g. raw data, species lists,
supplementary diagrams, photographs, maps, glossary of terms). Removing these from the text allows the reader
to concentrate on the main issues without distraction. All appendices must be clearly labelled and referred to
where appropriate in the main text. Avoid large amounts of standard cut and paste text and consider carefully what
information will really benefit the reader. Inclusion of very long lists/tables of species data/records received from
other data providers should also be avoided, although a brief summary with interpretation of such information
should be made known to the reader and the whole dataset made available on request. Ensure methods used are
up-to-date and follow good practice. If surveying for protected species or species of principal importance, state
which species were looked for and the methods/signs used, even if the result was negative. If the methods used
deviate from, or are only based on, standard methods, state how they differ and why (see BS42020; Clauses 6.3.6 to
6.3.8).

10
 6. Common Pitfalls
6.1. Common pitfalls include:
• Failure to establish the purpose of the report, the target audience and what it will be used for. Not considering
these issues at the beginning is a common reason for reports being badly written or not being suitable for their
intended purpose.
• Inappropriate or careless use of cut and paste of standard blocks of text. While often a useful time saver, these
must be checked for accuracy and relevance. For instance, use of a generic paragraph for survey methods may
not be appropriate if, in fact, different methods or equipment were used.
• Where a report or document has evolved through various iterations, failure to update revisions and dates of
the report may lead to confusion over what version is being read or referred to.
• Not providing a clear link between the results presented and the recommendations made, or the conclusions
reached.
• Discrepancy between the summary, recommendations and conclusions.
• Description of results appearing in the methodology section.
• Lack of proportionality, resulting in excessively long and detailed assessments which are not of particular
relevance to the report’s purpose. Striking the right balance between keeping the report succinct and ensuring
that the report is sufficiently robust can be difficult and requires experience.
• Lack of proportionality within the discussion. Greater detail should be provided on key issues than on trivial
ones.
• Reliance on a published survey method without justification. Consideration should always be given to survey
design to ensure that the survey methods used are appropriate to the circumstances – the fact that a published
survey method was followed does not necessarily mean that the survey was done appropriately!
• Failure to check and discuss the evidence base for mitigation, compensation or enhancement measure.

7. Other Useful Guidance

British Standards Institution (2013). BS42020 Biodiversity – A code of practice for planning and development. http://
eshop.bsi-global.com/ProductDetails.aspx?p=30154979&cat=Environment

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2012). Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological
Assessment. Technical Guidance Series. http://www.cieem.net/guidance-on-preliminary-ecological-appraisal-gpea

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2013). Guidance for access to land. Professional
Guidance Series No. 7.

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2013). Metadata Standards. Professional Guidance
Series No. 10.

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2016). Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in
the UK and Ireland: Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal (version January 2016). Technical Guidance Series. https://www.
cieem.net/ecia-guidelines-terrestrial-

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (Ongoing). Sources of Survey Methods. Technical
Guidance Series. https://www.cieem.net/sources-of-survey-methods-sosm-

Regini, K. (2000). Guidelines for ecological impact evaluation and impact assessment. In Practice, Bulletin of the
Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, 29: 1-7.

Shepherd, P. and Green, J. (2002). Planning and implementing ecological surveys. In Practice, Bulletin of the Institute of
Ecology and Environmental Management, 36: 7-9.

11
Appendix A. Template for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report (PEAR)
This template should be used in accordance with the recommendations presented in CIEEM’s Guidelines for Ecological Report Writing. The template is intended to provide a logical and
reasonable structure for those preparing a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report (PEAR) that may be submitted to a client to identify ecological constraints and opportunities present on a
site, and to make recommendations on what further work may be required to complete an EcIA necessary to support a planning application. The template should be used to guide the topics
and content to be included in such a report.

Section Content
A1. Cover page Report title.
Date of report.
Name and contact details of principal author.
Name of individual/organisation who commissioned the report.
Unique reference number so that the report can be referred to, including version number (e.g. date and/or 1st, 2nd, provisional
or final draft etc).
A2. Quality Assurance Details of QA protocol
A3. Contents table Provide page numbers for each section (and possibly also sub-sections), as well as figures and appendices.
A4. Summary A one page summary of:
• Purpose of the report
• Methodology
• Key issues
• Conclusions
Consider inclusion of a provisional Ecological Constraints and Opportunities Plan (ECOP) as specified in BS42020 clause 5.4 as a
graphical means of presenting key information (see also A9 below).
A5. Introduction Name and qualifications of principal author.
Name of individual/organisation who commissioned the report.
Site name.
Brief description of the site.
Reference to a plan showing the site boundaries with an OS base.
A brief description of the proposed project that may eventually go forward as a planning application e.g. an outline planning
application for residential development of the site.
Clear statement of the purpose of the report e.g.:
• To identify key ecological constraints to the proposed development
• To inform master-planning to allow significant ecological effects to be avoided or minimised wherever possible
• To allow the further ecological surveys needed to inform an ecological impact assessment to be identified and
appropriately designed
• To allow likely mitigation or compensation measures to be developed
• To form a basis for agreeing the scope of the ecological impact assessment with relevant consultees

12
Section Content
A6. Planning policy and legislation Provide all relevant planning policies (national and local) that apply to the site in question.
(Note: This can be included as a section in the main List all relevant legislation.
body of the report or can be included as an appendix) It is important that this section is scheme-specific. Where a piece of legislation is relevant, explain why (i.e. how it relates to
protected species that are/could be present).
A7. Methodology/Methods List the individuals or organisations that have been contacted.
A7.1 Desk study List the websites that have been used to search for relevant data.
Describe the information that has been requested/searched for.
Describe the study area (likely to vary in relation to different features).
State when data searches were carried out.
List any ecological reports that have been reviewed, such as previous reports for the same site, or reports for adjacent sites.
A7. Methodology/Methods For each field survey undertaken provide:
A7.2 Field survey • Brief description of methodology/methods
• Names and qualifications of surveyors
• Date(s) and time of day (where relevant) of surveys
• Study area
• Weather conditions at time of survey(s)
• Reference to relevant guidance document (where appropriate)
• Explanation of any departures from recommended guidance
• Limitations
Note: Where multiple survey visits have been undertaken, dates, times and weather conditions of surveys can be provided in a
table in an appendix.
Note: Where the field survey was an ‘extended Phase 1 habitat survey’ or the equivalent in Ireland, it is important to explain
what was done in addition to the standard habitat survey, such as an assessment of the likely value of the hedgerows for
dormice, or identification of any buildings or trees suitable for use by roosting bats, etc.
A8. Baseline ecological conditions/Results Provide details of all designated sites of relevance (or possible relevance) to the assessment, including name, level of designation,
A8.1 Designated sites location relative to the site, and reasons for designation. In some cases it will be relevant to include a plan showing the location
of designated sites.
A8. Baseline ecological conditions/Results Provide a description of the habitat types present within the site and on immediately adjacent land. Focus should be given to
A8.2 Habitats habitat types identified as being of national or local importance for the conservation of biodiversity. This should make reference
to a habitat map of the site, normally drawn in accordance with Phase 1 habitat survey methodology or the equivalent in Ireland.
However, it should be noted that the habitat categories used by the Phase 1 habitat survey methodology do not mirror the
habitat types considered to be conservation priorities, and further details will therefore need to be provided in some cases. The
description should include all relevant information, such as dominant plant species present, notable plant species, and current
management.

13
Section Content
A8. Baseline ecological conditions/Results Provide a description of the use of the site (or likely use of the site) by important species (national or local conservation priorities,
A8.3 Species and species groups or protected species). This should be based on a combination of desk study information, field survey data, and an assessment of
Note: This can be sub-headed as follows, for example: the likely value of the habitats for each species present. The description for each species/group should combine the information
i. Plants provided from the various data sources, rather than including desk study and field survey information for the same species/group
ii. Invertebrates in different parts of the report.
iii. Amphibians The detailed results of field surveys should be presented on plans (for some sites they can be included on a Phase 1 habitat map
iv. Reptiles or the equivalent in Ireland) and/or in appendices.
v. Cirl buntings In some cases it will be appropriate to group species together into species groups to avoid repetition.
vi. Other birds A precautionary approach will need to be adopted where surveys have not been completed at the time that the report is written.
vii. Bats Guided by the results from data searches, it will be appropriate to include the following relevant species/species groups as a
viii. Dormice minimum for all sites:
ix. Badgers • Plants
x. Other mammals • Invertebrates
• Amphibians
• Reptiles
• Birds
• Bats
• Badgers
• Other mammals
Additional species or species groups may also be appropriate, and it may be appropriate to further sub-divide the groups to pro-
vide a detailed description of certain species for example, such as marsh fritillary butterflies, great crested newts, cirl buntings,
barbastelle bats, etc.
A9. Ecological constraints and opportunities, and Identify all ecological constraints to the development (including potential constraints, where there is insufficient information
recommendations for mitigation and further survey available to be definitive at the stage that the report is written).
Note: This can be sub-headed as follows, for example: Provide details on how potentially significant effects could be avoided, minimised or otherwise mitigated. If providing details on
i. River X SSSI mitigation, compensation or enhancement measures, refer to the evidence base for each.
ii. Ancient woodland Provide a justification for the level of constraint (geographical importance of the feature, designated sites, legal protection, etc.).
iii. Other habitats Describe the additional surveys necessary to inform a detailed ecological impact assessment, sufficient to inform a planning
iv. Invertebrates application, providing details on study areas and appropriate methodologies and timing for each.
v. Amphibians Identify opportunities for biodiversity gain.
vi. Reptiles Provide summary tables of mitigation measures required (or potentially required) and further surveys.
vii. Birds Consider use of a provisional Ecological Constraints and Opportunities Plan (ECOP) as specified in BS42020 clause 5.4 as a
viii. Bats graphical means of presenting key information.
Or:
i. Key constraints to design
ii. Other mitigation requirements
iii. Further surveys required
iv. Opportunities for enhancement

14
 Section Content
A10. Conclusions Draw conclusions in relation to the purpose of the report, ensuring these are justifiable based on the content of the report.
Wherever further surveys are required, or further information is needed to inform a detailed assessment of all ecological effects,
this must be clearly stated in the conclusions.
A11. References All documents referred to in the text should be listed and appropriately referenced.
A12. Figures Provide a plan showing the features referred to in the report (normally based on a Phase 1 habitat map or the equivalent in
Ireland).
It may be appropriate to provide other plans/figures to show the locations of specific ecological features referred to in the report.
A13. Appendices Provide detailed survey methodologies and results in appendices.
Site photographs can also be provided in an appendix.

15
Appendix B. Template for Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) Report
This template should be used in accordance with the recommendations presented in CIEEM’s Guidelines for Ecological Report Writing. The template is intended to provide a logical and
reasonable structure for those preparing Ecological Impact Assessment Reports that will be submitted in support of a planning application. The template should be used to guide the topics
and content to be included in such a report.
For assessments which clearly relate to a single species or species group (such as assessments relating to bats in a proposed barn conversion) it will be appropriate to simplify the report
structure by combining sections or deleting headings for sections which are not needed (for example, cumulative effects or compensation may not be required in some cases, particularly for
very small scale projects). However, whilst it may be appropriate to simplify the structure of the report, it is likely that the contents set out below will be relevant for schemes of any scale,
and any major departures from this approach should therefore be clearly justified.
Note: This template may need to be adapted for use in relation to an EcIA Report for a project in the marine environment.

Section Content
B1. Cover page Report title.
Date of report.
Name and contact details of principal author.
Name of individual/organisation who commissioned the report.
Unique reference number so that the report can be referred to, including version number.
B2. Quality Assurance Details of QA protocol
B3. Contents table Provide page numbers for each section (and possibly also sub-sections), as well as figures, tables and appendices.
B4. Summary A one-page summary of:
• Purpose of the report
• Description of the scheme
• Methodology/methods
• Key impacts and mitigation measures
• Conclusions
Consider also use of a finalised Ecological Constraints and Opportunities Plan (ECOP) as specified in BS42020 clause 5.4 as a
graphical means of presenting key information.

16
Section Content
B5. Introduction Name, qualifications and competence of principal author.
Name of individual/organisation who commissioned the report.
Purpose of the report.
Site name.
Brief description of the site.
Reference to a plan showing the site boundaries with an OS base.
A brief description of the project, e.g. an outline planning application for residential development of the site.
Reference to any previous reports provided for the site (e.g. a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report).
Clear statement of the purpose of the report e.g.:
• To identify and describe all potentially significant ecological effects associated with the proposed development
• To set out the mitigation measures required to ensure compliance with nature conservation legislation and to address
any potentially significant ecological effects
• To identify how mitigation measures will/could be secured
• To provide an assessment of the significance of any residual effects
• To identify appropriate enhancement measures
• To set out the requirements for post-construction monitoring
B6. Planning policy and legislation Provide all key relevant planning policies (national and local).
(Note: This can be included as a section in the main body of List all relevant legislation.
the report or can be included as an appendix) It is important that this section is scheme-specific. Where a piece of legislation is relevant, explain why (i.e. which protected
species are present).
B7. Methodology/Methods Describe the scope of the assessment, including:
B7.1 Scope of the assessment • A description of the Zone/Zones of Influence
• List the types of features considered, e.g. designated sites, habitats and species of principal importance for
conservation of biodiversity, protected species, etc.
• Describe any consultation that has taken place in relation to determining the scope of the assessment
B7. Methodology/Methods List the individuals or organisations that have been contacted.
B7.2 Desk study List the websites that have been used to search for relevant data.
Describe the information that has been requested/searched for.
Describe the study area (likely to vary in relation to different features).
State when data searches were carried out.
List any ecological reports that have been reviewed, such as previous reports for the same site, or reports for adjacent sites
(appropriately referenced).

17
Section
B7. Methodology/methods
B7.3 Field survey
B7. Methodology/methods
B7.4 Assessment
B8. Baseline ecological conditions
(General)
B8. Baseline ecological conditions
B8.1 Designated sites
B8. Baseline ecological conditions
B8.2 Habitats
18
Content
For each field survey undertaken provide:
• Brief description of methodology/methods
• Names and qualifications of surveyors
• Date(s) of surveys
• Study area
• Weather conditions at time of survey(s) and time of day (if relevant)
• Reference to relevant guidance document (where appropriate)
• Explanation of any departures from recommended guidance
• Limitations
Note: Where multiple survey visits have been undertaken, dates, times and weather conditions of surveys can be provided in
a table in an appendix.
Note: Detailed descriptions of survey methods can be provided in an appendix.
Note: Where the field survey was an ‘extended Phase 1 habitat survey’ (or the equivalent in Ireland), it is important to explain
what was done in addition to the standard Phase 1 habitat survey or equivalent in Ireland, such as an assessment of the likely
value of the hedgerows for dormice, or identification of any buildings or trees suitable for use by roosting bats, etc.
Describe the assessment methodology used. In particular:
• How has significance been determined.
• What geographical contexts are used, and how have these been determined.
• State which years have been assumed for the assessment of impacts (and for which baseline conditions have been
described).
Provide a clear description of the baseline conditions for all features. This should be based on the conditions at the time
that the activity giving rise to an impact occurs, assuming the absence of the development. In some cases this may require
consideration of the baseline conditions in multiple years (for example, to account for operational phase impacts).
Include a statement of the geographical contexts within which each feature is considered to be important. Provide a
summary table listing all of the relevant features and the geographical context within which each is considered to be
important.
Provide details of all designated sites of relevance (or possible relevance) to the assessment, including name, level of
designation, location relative to the site, and reasons for designation. In some cases it will be relevant to include a plan
showing the location of designated sites.
Provide a description of the habitat types present within the site and on immediately adjacent land. Focus should be given
to habitat types identified as being of national or local importance for the conservation of biodiversity. This should make
reference to a habitat map of the site, normally drawn in accordance with Phase 1 habitat survey methodology (or the
equivalent in Ireland). However, it should be noted that the habitat categories used by Phase 1 Habitat Survey do not mirror
the habitat types considered to be conservation priorities, and further details will therefore need to be provided in some
cases.
The description should include all relevant information, such as dominant plant species present, notable plant species, and
current management.
 Section Content
B8. Baseline ecological conditions Provide a description of the use of the site (or likely use of the site) by important species (national or local conservation
B8.3 Species and species groups priorities, or protected species). This should be based on a combination of desk study information, field survey data, and an
Note This can be sub-headed as follows, for example: assessment of the likely value of the habitats for each species present. The description for each species/group should combine
i. Plants the information provided from the various data sources, rather than including desk study and field survey information for the
ii. Invertebrates same species/group in different parts of the report.
iii. Amphibians The detailed results of field surveys should be presented on plans (for some sites they can be included on the Phase 1 habitat
iv. Reptiles map or the equivalent in Ireland) and/or in appendices.
v. Cirl buntings In some cases it will be appropriate to group species together into species groups to avoid repetition.
vi. Other birds
vii. Bats
viii. Badgers
ix. Other mammals
B9. Description of the proposed development Provide a detailed description of the proposals with reference to appropriate drawings.
Include a description of how the scheme has been designed to avoid/minimise ecological effects, if relevant.
B10. Assessment of effects and mitigation measures Identify and describe all of the potential impacts of the proposed development on each feature identified in the ‘Baseline
Note: This can be sub-headed as follows, for example: Conditions’ section, including impacts associated with all phases (construction, operation, restoration, de-commissioning,
B.10.1 Reptiles etc.).
• Potential impacts • Where no impact on a particular feature is predicted a clear statement to this effect should be provided with
• Mitigation measures appropriate justification.
• Significance of residual effects • It is important that this section follows the same sub-headings as the Baseline Conditions section to enable the reader
Note: Potential impacts can be divided into different to see how the impacts on each feature present has been assessed.
phases, but the significance of residual effects should relate Identify and describe the mitigation measures required and a clear statement of how these can be secured. Refer to the
to the project as a whole (i.e. all phases combined) evidence base, if any, for these mitigation measures.
Provide an assessment of the significance of any residual effects. This should comprise a description of the effect and a
statement of the geographic level at which the effect is likely to be significant (e.g. Significant at the national level, Significant
at the county level, Not significant, etc.).
The assessment must include a robust justification for the assessment, based on information clearly presented in the report.
In many cases, this is likely to require reference to be made to appropriate publications.
Provide a summary table listing the significance of residual effects for each feature, the mitigation measures required and the
means by which mitigation measures can be secured to allow the local planning authority to ensure that appropriate planning
conditions/obligations are included with any consent.
B.11 Cumulative effects Identify any other projects which could give rise to a significant cumulative effect.
Note: This can be included within the ‘Assessment of Describe and assess any potential cumulative effects and determine whether they would be significant or not (and in which
effects and mitigation measures’ or dealt with as a separate geographical context).
section Provide a robust justification for the conclusions reached.
B12. Compensation Where compensation measures are considered necessary to offset significant residual effects these should be described and
(if relevant) assessed. Refer to the evidence base, if any, for these compensation measures.

19
Section Content
B13. Enhancement Provide a description of the enhancement measures proposed, over and above any mitigation required, and how these could
be secured.
B14. Monitoring Identify and describe any monitoring surveys required, including details of methods and timing, where appropriate.
B15. Conclusions Draw conclusions on the overall ecological effects of the scheme, justifying how the project accords with relevant legislation
and planning policy.
Demonstrate compliance with or deviation from relevant development plan policies and statutory obligations.
Identify mechanisms to secure commitment to and delivery of recommended measures e.g. through planning conditions and/
or through EPS licences.
Explain clearly what the likely outcomes are for biodiversity if the proposed development is granted planning permission. Such
implications may be presented as a table and/or as a statement of ‘net losses and gains’ and should provide the decision-
maker with a clear understanding of the likely consequence for habitats and species likely to be affected significantly by the
proposals.
B16. References All documents referred to in the text should be listed and appropriately referenced.
B17. Figures Provide a plan showing the features referred to in the report (normally based on a Phase 1 habitat map or the equivalent in
Ireland).
It may be appropriate to provide other plans/figures to show the locations of specific ecological features referred to in the
report.
It can be helpful to overlay the scheme layout or parameter plans with the ecological features.
B18. Appendices Provide detailed survey methodologies and results in appendices. Site photographs can also be provided in an appendix.

20